PISD eyeing $42 million bond election

HEATHER RHODES

Published 7:00 pm, Tuesday, April 15, 2003

Pearland Independent School district is considering a $42 million bond proposal, with a possible election to be held on Sept. 27, and district administrators are emphasizing that the initiative is not likely to raise property taxes.

"The way that the community has grown, we have an increased tax value," said Dr. Glenn Garrison, board of trustees president.

"This means that we have more money on the tax rolls, and this bond issue should be able to be funded, if passed, with no tax increase at all."

With a projected enrollment increase to 18,000 students by the year 2011, school officials say the money would be used on numerous projects, including six campus upgrades, adding a new middle school for fifth and sixth grade, a new junior high for seventh and eighth grade, and work on bays for the buses.

Assistant Superintendent for Business Don Marshall said Pearland is growing by "leaps and bounds" and can fill an entire school every year. He said the average growth rate per district is anywhere from one to three percent.

Pearland averages between five to six percent, with this year's rate at eight percent.

Director of Communications Angela Alksne said the bond projects are still under review. The district is conducting a tour with parent and community representatives from each campus, but specific proposed projects are being targeted.

"Shadycrest Elementary School has a 30 year-old air conditioning system that needs to be brought to city code," Alksne said. "That will run around $2 million, and Jamison Middle School needs a new roof and that is estimated to be $550,000."

Artificial playing turf would replace the current field surfaced at The Rig, a football field that is used an average of only five times a year. Alksne said the district would actually save money by replacing this field with artificial turf instead of using natural grass.

"This project would cost around $800,000," Alksne said, "but the yearly maintenance alone is $300,000 a year. If this project is approved it would cut out that cost altogether."

The district plans to use the field for Little League Football, band competitions and possibly hosting Class 2A and 3A playoff games.

The board has had workshops but board members say more workshops are needed before the proposal would go to election. Next bond discussion is planned April 22.